Businessmen are running after corrupt practices in the country in literal term as the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) and the Makati Business Club (MBC) plan to hold a run against corruption on May 29 at the Bonifacio Global City in Taguig.

Dubbed "I Run For Integrity Toward A New Philippines," the event is being staged together with their partners in the Integrity Initiative coalition that includes the Management Association of the Philippines, Coalition Against Corruption, Asian Institute of Management, and the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines.

With more than 5,000 runners expected to participate, Integrity Initiative project director Henry Schumacher said the event is a strong indication the country is ready for changes in how it conducts its business dealings.

"The Integrity Initiative project has currently gained the commitment of companies from a wide range of industries.  It has also secured the commitment of key government agencies.  We believe these are signs the Philippines is moving toward an ethical and progressive business environment," Schumacher said.

For his part, MBC chairman Ramon del Rosario Jr. said the Integrity Initiative project will be setting up a certification system for various industries that will enable them to combat corruption.

"The aim is to reduce the cost of doing business and level the playing field among industries.  We will implement a system that will provide practical guidance to companies in developing internal mechanisms to combat bribery and prevent other forms of corruption," Del Rosario said.

Currently, more than 500 companies from the advertising, airline, banking and finance, business process outsourcing, direct selling, insurance, manufacturing, pharmaceutical, property and telecommunication industries have signed and pledged to support the campaign.

It is also being strongly supported by the government's finance, budget and management, energy, transport and communications, public works, local government, and justice departments along with the Bureau of Internal Revenue and
Bureau of Customs,

Others from the government that have expressed their support are the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Civil Service Commission, Philippine Economic Zone Authority, and Securities and Exchange Commission.

The Integrity run will feature 3k, 5k, 10k, and 15k divisions with participants wearing the colors of the Philippine flag in their singlet.

Event partners for the run are Chevrolet, Chris Sports, Convergys, Bonifacio Global City, Globaltronics Inc., Phinma, SGV & Co. and Smart Communications.

Source: The Daily Tribune; Business; 26 May 2011